5 BJJ White Belt Tips - Beginning BJJ Mindset and Goals | Chris Matakas

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Here are 5 tips for Brazilian Jiu Jitsu white belts. For those starting BJJ adhering to these 5 tips will set yourself up for long term Brazilian Jiu Jitsu success. We’ve gotten a lot of questions from new Brazilian Jiu Jitsu white belts about general tips to get better at Jiu Jitsu and to maximize BJJ development, and it is my goal to help you have a successful white belt journey.
I had a really cool encounter with one of our white belts named Stefan. He asked all of these amazing questions, and I realized they were questions I hadn’t addressed formally in the class setting with all of my new students. Here are the 5 things a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu white belt should focus on in the beginning of their journey:
1) Remember That You Are A Work In Progress
2) Narrow Your Immediate Focus
3) Learn How to Learn
4) Be Grateful for Your Teammates
5) Remember that Jiu Jitsu is a Vehicle for Something More
Links to Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Books by Chris Matakas
On Jiu Jitsu: amzn.to/2M0svgb
5 Rules for White Belts: amzn.to/339x0uK
Hero: amzn.to/2ATNmeZ
If this video brought any value to you it would mean the world if you hit that like button, left a comment to share your thoughts on the subject, and subscribed to our channel.
I am grateful for you, friends! -Chris
(P.S., Feel free to find me on Instagram and say “Hi!”, @MatakasBJJ)
Links to Other BJJ Tips Videos
How to Deal with Toxic BJJ Students: • 6 Ways to Deal with a ...
White Belt but Better Than Blue belts? • 1 Stripe BJJ White Bel...
Gi vs No Gi - Is One Better? • BJJ Gi vs No Gi Jiu Ji...
5 Must-Know Tips for White Belts: • 5 BJJ White Belt Tips ...
Professor Chris Matakas is a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu black belt under Professor Ricardo Almeida and is owner of Matakas BJJ in Florence, NJ.
DISCLAIMER: This video and description may contain affiliate links, which means that if you click on them, Chris Matakas may receive a small commission. This helps supports the Chris Matakas KZbin channel and allows us to continue to make more videos. Thanks for your support!

[@hermanandretti3665]

I have been contemplating joining BJJ for 5 years, and I'm 27 now, I'm finally going to my first class this week! thanks for the tips

[@CharlieKing1]

How did it go?

[@ezell704]

Charlie King I would also like to know. I started recently too and have fallen in love with it.

[@Tom-ly4xf]

still at bjj during covid?

[@jamesahawkinsiii2968]

How's it been? I'm in week 2

[@neklang9020]

How's bjj now?

[@tonysuyetsugu3805]

I started BJJ at the young age of 71 and am now 74. I’m still a white belt and for the first 12-15 months I was smashed at every class I attended. In fact after my first month, I took a higher belt to da ground and he said I would have scored 2 points. About 2 months into training I went to the bathroom and pissed blood. I went for a PE and I was diagnosed with 2 broken ribs and a injured kidney. I stayed away for a month and returned to class where I was continually smashed for months. Now, 18-19 months into my training I’m getting smashed less and I’m finally beginning to comprehend the vocabulary and techniques. Bottom line, keep training and really enjoy da ride.

[@mc4lnp]

Man, I teared up reading this. Love your resolve and I wish you the best journey in your training and your life. Thank you

[@pkosh1]

You're the man

[@fuzzman9298]

71 doing bjj wow well done man

[@JohnMazz]

To your first point, I heard someone once say that FAIL should, in our thinking, stand for First Attempt In Learning. 👍

[@korabasia]

I came here to find out how to smash other white belts and came out understanding how wrong and destructive my approach was not only to BJJ but to my whole life. That was the tip of the day! Thank you very much, Chris!

[@wearevenom6358]

Lol, you don’t use your brute force. That will get your butt absolutely destroyed against good people. You have to play with your deck of cards with your opponent. Almost like a game of go fish or war. Also, you need speed.

[@AverageGIJoeOutdoors]

@@wearevenom6358 As an older dude..... you don't need speed. You need patience.

[@darwinwhitten8542]

I am a 54 year old beginner and did my first BJJ class yesterday. I was really nervous and I do not know anything. The gym made me feel welcome and after I found this video and ordered the book . Thank You so much for your advice. I am really out of shape but I am going to keep going.

[@ChrisMatakas]

I want to congratulate you for taking your first step! That act alone is an incredible feat; well done! Know that you’re not alone..almost every single student who steps through our academy’s doors share those same feelings of nervousness - it is nearly universal. I’m glad to know this video served you. And with any sort of activity-based endeavor, the more you do it, the more you’ll find yourself getting in shape.

[@andrewkarl5174]

Great, I started a little older, best decision I’ve ever made. This advice is solid. From a 65 year old 2 stripe blue belt just stay humble and keep showing up.

[@LMS.Sydney]

I hear you bro @andrew Karl I am 64 and 5 months into my BJJ. Getting smashed & Learning new things after every session.

[@robinator503]

I'm 52. New white belt. Stay humble, Take some supplements like omega 3 and a joint complex. Just be present and have fun

[@bananapatch9118]

59 and overweight. MMA fan since UFC 1 and started getting interested in watching grappling like Gordon Ryan and the Danaher Death Squad. One of my grandsons was getting bullied, he’s 11. I asked my daughter to think of bjj classes and she said I should take him. 4 classes in and loving it !

[@archiemann1397]

I needed to see this comment ..that’s awesome

[@bananapatch9118]

@@archiemann1397 Made it through a year. 60 now and still love it but forced to take some time off due to left hip arthritis and left hip flexor psoas impingement. Couldn’t even get in and out of a car. But, moving to another country to retire and hoping to get back at it asap. I hope to be playing BJJ into my 70s. I recommend it to everyone !

[@archiemann1397]

@@bananapatch9118 hope you heal soon 🙏👊.

[@toddtaylor1602]

Thank you for this! I'm 3 back to back classes in. I'll share this with every newcomer I meet hereafter.

[@yoitsrami]

Very well said professor, I just did my first class. I am sad to say that I am very out of shape and I gassed out during warmups. I couldnt finish them. However, I am incredibly excited to continue. I am 31 and I know that I will get better. No one ever got worse by showing up.

[@gbutler3674]

Love the precision in your language Chris. I’m a late comer to the sport and enjoying it immensely at present. Keep one foot in chaos and one in order... love it! I will give your books a go. Thanks again.

[@AaronDarko]

Beautifully articulated. Loved this video.. thank you for the massive amount of value 🙌🏾

[@vancegerard9329]

About six months in and training at a great gym with a lot of willingly helpful upper belts. Definitely still playing the fool daily, nice to have a reminder of how normal that is. Really great advice, definitely ordering a copy of the book. Thanks for sharing.

[@mrjemenai]

So, I didn’t even realize that I already have two of your audiobooks in my library. I’ve been listening to On Jiu-Jitsu as I walk in the mornings and it’s YOURS! 😂😂😂😂 that’s so wild.

[@AgendaWindowCleaning]

This is too bizarre. I just finished up “On Jiu Jitsu” and read your comment. I didn’t realize “5 rules for White belt” was the same author. Too funny🤘🥋

[@KaleAleMusic]

This sounds very poetic! just started bjj and these are some of the best advice I've seen online

[@-starlight-88]

Great video - thanks for posting 🙏🏽

[@taygenormandy4284]

Another great video! Chris Matakas: bjj coach and life coach. Much respect!

[@ChrisMatakas]

Thank you and glad the video is helpful!

[@jonathantynes1150]

This is SUCH a good video. I Just started and the mind has been the biggest battle on everything. Thanks for taking the time to say this.

[@ChrisMatakas]

Congratulations on taking the first step of your journey! The mind plays a massive role in our ability to learn and succeed, even in jiu jitsu. If you have any interest, I launched a FB group where we will be going deeper into that very topic - feel free to find me over there if you want to join!

[@MehoyMenoy13]

I’m 28 and Just had my second class. My third one is today. Loving it so far and although I’m getting wrecked I see it as a learning experience.

[@samjuner]

Inspiring and perfectly delivered. Thanks for this Chris. 👍

[@obyone67]

great content, its after class i digest my mistakes and how i could defend or correct them, during the roll everything is happening faster and my thought processes haven't translated to my limbs, muscle memory, its so humbling and at times frustrating , but I just keep going, the journey, great tips, thanks .

[@BlackestNightVideos]

If I can give this video a million likes and views I would. Thank you for this I needed to hear it. Much love and respect to everyone training and continuing or starting your journey. ✊

[@KOP1968]

Thank you so much I recently became a blue belt loved the episode and content great stuff.

[@altruex]

Great perspective!

[@jdavidrhea]

I just started BJJ with my two teen sons. I also just got your book on Audible and listed to it twice in a row. Great information! Thanks for making it available!

[@nike4685]

Chris the presentation you have put forward is paramount in developing your BJJ as a White Belt, but as you point out Jiu Jitsu teaches you skills that carry you forward in many other important aspects of Life. The word “ Humble” is key to BJJ and Life. Absolutely thought your White Belt book was Fantastic, please share the link to know where one can buy it, I’m sure lots of avid BJJ students can learn from your book. Nicolas

[@Ch3fferVonSous]

Im looking forward to my first intro class. Fantastic video on the philosophy of this art. 100% 👍

[@Franxiquito]

Loved your evolution analogy! Great video!

[@badgoat666]

Great points. Thanks for posting 👌

[@droptarget7713]

I finally started about a year ago and have really liked it! I'm 33. This is great advice too and a job well done

[@PAIN0630]

Great explanation. Thank you for the video.

[@kldshfnlhfsalkmhflca]

Fantastic video! Thank you!

[@demigodbjj5976]

Leaving for jits in 30 mins, needed this. Thanks brother got a sub from me

[@Alejandro-du6vq]

Just had my first class and went on Reddit. Glad I found your video! Keep up the good work. Oss!

[@ChrisMatakas]

I'm honored that you found the video useful and so happy to hear that you've started the journey! Stick with it and it will be one of the most rewarding experiences of your life.

[@ChrisMatakas]

btw, In case you want a little more, there is a playlist on my channel that I recorded a few weeks ago that has 10 2-3 minute videos. Feel free to check them out.

[@Alejandro-du6vq]

I will check them out for sure. Shared your channel with a friend that also practices BJJ.

[@ChrisMatakas]

@@Alejandro-du6vq Awesome! Thank you for that. We plan on putting at least one video per day over through the end of May and your feedback is appreciated.

[@ttmt2971]

Hey well done thanks for some tips. New to rolling at 63 and loving it.

[@richardrussell5807]

Great video.. some many good messages in there. 😊🙏

[@miguelpagan8436]

Wow very deep, and I love it thank you so much for that in thought and feeling.

[@casstjc]

Super happy that you found this video useful!

[@ChrisMatakas]

Your welcome! I’m grateful that you’ve found value in the videos.

[@pingwinson369]

I am forever grateful for your teachings and books. Thank you.

[@ChrisMatakas]

Thanks so much for reaching out - so glad to hear they've been of value to you!

[@swayzalinio]

Great advice. Thank you!

[@mattbustin4791]

Chris, I found your book on Amazon and then started following your channel. Very informative and inspiring. Thank you.

[@ChrisMatakas]

Awesome! Hope you enjoy, and I'll do my best to provide value to you on your journey! Be well.

[@TheAshMan01]

Very well said!

[@VTR1997]

Thanks for these tips man!!!!!

[@TheBdawg40]

Great video!

[@Backyardpainting209]

Thank you for everything

[@carloslopez-jg5ol]

Well said. I love that mentality

[@Mike_Virata]

I just bought the paperback version of the book. In addition to the knowledge, it's a nice decoration for the coffee table.

[@taylorrichens1749]

I can tell this guy listens to/reads Jordan Peterson haha. Great video, very insightful.

[@trailthinker5588]

I have a black belt in another style, I’m 62 years old and I have survived one heart attack. I started training in Jujitsu one month ago. It has been a humbling experience, but I was trained well enough in my other style to realize that it is a journey of failures and successes. Ego has no place on the mat. It would easy for a younger and more skilled practitioner to injure me instead of taking a pace that would me build up over time. Always consider the age and medical and physical condition of your practicing partner. I appreciate advice in this video, very wise.

[@ChrisMatakas]

Amen! Glad to hear you have found your way to Jiu Jitsu and that your past experiences can serve this goal. Wishing you great health, my friend! (It sounds like you have the perfect philosophy to succeed in this discipline, btw!)

[@jrobinson760]

Deep. Very helpful

[@AR-ii3ly]

I am in my 50s and started BJJ a few days ago after deliberating for years whether to take it up. For me BJJ represents a need to keep my body in shape ie keeping fit, and not to be competitive…I have kickboxing for that. The competitive bit will come later but for now it’s just about learning no longer how long it takes.

[@ad4219]

Great words thank you sir

[@hatetheergo]

Thanks for these really helpful tips. I only currently have time to train 2-3 times a week due to busy family and work life - what tips would you have for me to maximise my progress in those sessions and what can I do away from the mat to supplement my training?

[@trevorhansen7018]

Speaking wisdom 🙏🏼

[@ChrisMatakas]

I appreciate you watching, Trevor!

[@AverageGIJoeOutdoors]

Biggest thing is this.....be prepared to be a white belt for a while. Don't go in expecting to get your white belt in 12 mths or 18 mths..... and if you happen to change gyms... forget about it. Find a good gym and settle in for a long slow grind.

[@calmwater2529]

Thank you.

[@TruthfullyTwisted]

Thanks brother 🙏

[@ChrisMatakas]

Get a FREE* copy of Hero. Hero retails for $14.99, but we bought it for you! We just ask that you pay your shipping / handling to receive it. go.chrismatakas.com/yourfreecopyofherobook

[@carnivorous_vegan]

You started jiu jitsu the week after you got out of college just like me ! I'm 24 and starting jiu jitsu, I was worried that I was too late and too old for it and I regretted not starting when I was a kid so that by now I would be a master. But you're a successful jui jitsu practitioner and great at jiu jitsu. Thank you.

[@ChrisMatakas]

Congrats on beginning the journey - wishing you the absolute best!

[@stealthgamer474]

I started karate and bjj and i regret not starting them when i was younger too

[@ChrisMatakas]

@@stealthgamer474 I find that to often be the case when I speak with new students, but bjj has a way of finding you when you're ready and able!

[@stealthgamer474]

@@ChrisMatakas yep. I got injured tho(fractured my finger) is there anyway to prevent injuries?

[@drumrit]

I see a lot of similarities between you and Jordan Peterson’s philosophy a guidance. Thanks for a great video! First class starts tomorrow :)

[@oliavee910]

Just few minutes ago got this book in audible and funny that I saw this video 😄

[@onerider808]

Subscribed less than 2 minutes in

[@onewithnature8435]

New white belt here, started jiu jitsu one week ago, and I'm hooked. Do you think it's a good idea for me to roll, or should I train the fundamentals for a certain amount of time first? Thanks-

[@AverageGIJoeOutdoors]

Roll if you feel like it.

[@geaves762]

Just got the audible of the book

[@scottfrayn]

Chris - love the video. Are you a JBP fan? Sounds like you've successfully integrated some of his teachings into your instructions..."walk fine line between order and chaos", ."ascend the hierarchy", "carry a heavy burden" :D

[@ston3dhomosapi3n]

who’s JBP?

[@scottfrayn]

@@ston3dhomosapi3n Jordan B Peterson

[@ston3dhomosapi3n]

Scott Frayn aw ok yes , who’s not a fan of that man

[@yusufchowdhury5328]

Hi Chris! Do you have an ebook version of the book?

[@casstjc]

He does - It's on amazon. I have it on my kindle.

[@Patton750]

Hey Chris, I know a fellow Jordan Peterson fan when I see one. Good work my man! Loved this video, was very insightful.

[@ricardoavilaalvarez584]

i wanna read your book heck bad

[@Leopar525]

I sense a lot of Jordan Peterson here !!! Nice ;))

[@silverblack8312]

I wanna learn this art so bad but I'm 53 and out of grappling shape

[@ChrisMatakas]

If you do try, go at your own pace, pair up with someone who has similar goals and experiences, and take your time. Wishing you luck!

[@eugenecouch6811]

I took my first class two days ago and still can’t walk right my thighs hurt so much but it makes me want to get stronger and be better any tips for someone who will get to roll for the first time in a few days

[@ChrisMatakas]

Uploading a response for you now! It'll be a "KZbin Short" video

[@eugenecouch6811]

Thank you

[@marcusking1321]

I have a question, is it normal that my BJJ gym closes for 12 days during the holidays and still charged full price for the month?

[@ChrisMatakas]

That's a reasonably standard practice. We don't close fully, but have a reduced schedule around the holidays, to find the balance between instructors resting and affording students the opportunity to maintain consistency in training. I'd think big picture of the year: if that break allows your instructor team to rest, recoup, and provide massive value throughout the year, then as a student, I'd be fine with it. If I felt like they were just trying to abdicate responsibility, that's a different story.

[@dynamitecity9667]

“Fine line between order and chaos” Listening to Jordan Peterson 😝

[@andrewkarl5174]

Transferable skills, my Judo Sensei described it as, big and little Judo. Little Judo is what you do in the dojo, big Judo is what you take with you through life.

[@ChrisMatakas]

I love this! I appreciate you sharing the words of your Sensei..so many lessons from these martial arts that can serve us off of the mats.

[@remokelm1838]

QUESTION FOR ALL BJJ- PRACTITIONERS ... I am a huge mma fan for two decades now, did boxing and kickboxing back in the day and thought about starting BJJ multiple times in the last couple of years but never dared to just because meanwhile I am overweight, have a very vulnerable shoulder (dislocated 4 times), a messed up meniscus because of years of playing football and am 42 years old. Now because of that I am not sure if BJJ is the right thing for me to do but at this point my desire for doing it is bigger than ever but like I said...I doubt myself because of the points I mentioned. I just want to collect a couple of opinions and advises. What do you people think? Thank you in advance.

[@adventureswithcurt5485]

Give it a shot. You’re never gonna have an answer until you try. When you go for your first class or few classes explain briefly to drilling partners or rolling partners about your past injuries and be willing to accept that they can put you in positions you’d never even thought of. You will either become like a sponge and want to soak it all up and love it or realize that maybe it isn’t for you. It all starts with taking that first step into the gym that many aren’t willing to take.

[@-starlight-88]

There is a fighter/warrior inside of you wanting to come out. Go get it ! Commit to 3 classes - see how you feel - how your body responds - if you are worried about old injuries - acupuncture - diet - supplements and start walking and moving your body - you’d be surprised how much your body wants to heal - I think you should go for it - no regrets - good luck ! 🙏🏽

[@stephenwilliams5575]

Dude go for it I'm 5foot 11 and weighed 340lb past experience boxing and ITF taekwon-do blackbelt (gained weight after I quit training) also injured shoulder years ago I'm 4 weeks into jiu-jitsu and I have started to lose the weight and havent hurt my shoulder yet just train within your limits and completely ditch your ego if you have one

[@johntibaldi9496]

The Jordan Peterson of Jiu-Jitsu

[@kayakmaccaz9256]

👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻🇬🇧

[@Kevin-fy2fg]

Everything you said is all that stuff that you said

[@playthora6515]

The fool is the precursor to the saviour

[@shaun5047]

Just recently started doing bjj and the coach’s style really put a bad taste in my mouth. I’m a really curious person and ask a lot of questions. Seems like the coach isn’t a fan. Just surfing KZbin looking for some motivation, thanks for the advice.

[@WibblyWobblyWoo]

This guy has been reading his Jordan Peterson or they talking the same sense

[@brettmason1899]

switch to wrestling

[@ChrisMatakas]

Many adults who find BJJ later in life have a wrestling background :)